All things animal in Southern California and beyond

When the Station fire raged in Southern California last fall, veterinary hospital chain VCA stepped in to help, offering free boarding for the pets of residents forced to evacuate. With severe rainstorms pounding the very areas hit by the fire, residents are again being evacuated -- and VCA has announced that it will once again offer boarding services free of charge for evacuees.

"VCA wants everyone affected to know that during this difficult time, they have this free boarding option to keep their pets safe," Art Antin, the company's chief operating officer, said in a statement. Since room in the hospitals' kennel facilities is limited, owners are encouraged to call ahead to ensure that space is available to house their pets.

Photo: A Tujunga resident holds her dog as she watches a Public Works Department skiploader clear the road in front of her home, which was threatened by mudslides. Credit: Reed Saxon / Associated Press